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Have Whitewater Rafting Questions?Frequently Asked Questions about Rafting the American RiverGot a few questions about rafting trips? We've got some answers! Here are a few of the questions that we hear the most often - and the answers to them. If what you're looking for isn't covered here please do not hesitate to call our reservations staff at 800-825-3205 for some answers.
For those looking for the most action, the time to raft is in April when the spring runoff is at its peak and the water will be running fast, high, and exciting. The summer months are the most popular for our dam-controlled rivers with great water continuing through September. Midweek river trips offer a slower pace, lower prices, and fewer rafts on the water. The locale of the American River is unique in its weather pattern. Summer arrives early, sometime around April, with temperatures in the high 70's to 80's, climbing into the 90's and 100's in mid-summer. So, bring your river shoes, shorts, and T-shirt for an exciting, fun-filled river trip. Back to the Top
For April Thru September you'll need the following:
In addition on spring trips:
Please do not bring any cotton items on the river with you if you are concerned about staying warm. (This includes jeans and sweatshirts.) When cotton gets wet it robs your body of heat and is unsuitable for physical activity. Synthetic clothing, such as fleece, poly-pro, or capilene provides the best option for warmth retention. Back to the Top
If this is your first raft trip we recommend the South Fork American River, a Class III trip with plenty of excitement even for experienced rafters. For those who want more thrills, we suggest the Middle Fork American River with Class III - IV rapids or the North Fork American River with Class IV - V rapids and enough paddle action to satisfy anyone. For those wanting the most action and time on the water, try one of our Combo Trips. For large groups, over 100 people, the South Fork American River is your best choice. Back to the Top
It's no problem. Part of your group can raft the Middle/South Forks Combo and the rest can raft the South Fork American River. You'll all be at the same campground and will raft the same stretch of river together on the South Fork American River for one day. Back to the Top
Absolutely! Just call our Reservations Office at 800-825-3205 and we'll make arrangements to include you with other single bookings or small groups so you can experience the excitement of whitewater rafting. Back to the Top
We take care of you during most of your stay with us, but we recommend that you bring a small amount of cash. You may desire to purchase a T-shirt from us, a photo of your rafting trip, or a souvenir. We think that $50.00 - $100.00 will be adequate. Visa, MC, American Express & Discover are accepted at our Souvenir Shop. Back to the Top
No! Even though knowing how to swim is recommended, it's not necessary as all of our guests are outfitted with the very best life jackets at all times on the water. Before anyone gets on the river our guides check everyone's personal flotation devices (PFDs) to make sure that they fit properly, are appropriate for their body weight, and are adjusted correctly. Back to the Top
There are a series of dams upstream of the South and Middle Forks of the American River which provide water for electrical power, irrigation, and drinking for residents of California. The most water is released in the spring and summer, supplying plenty of exciting whitewater action. This assures you of a great raft trip all the way through the end of September, even in low snowpack years. The North Fork American is NOT dam controlled, and is therefore runable only in April, May, and early June, depending on the snowpack and rainfall each year. Back to the Top
While all of our employees are paid for their services and do not expect a tip, if you feel your boatman, cook, or bus driver has made your trip especially enjoyable tipping is a nice way of expressing thanks and is certainly appreciated! Back to the Top
Having diabetes does not preclude you from experiencing all of the fun, excitement, and adventure of a whitewater raft trip. People with diabetes raft with us all of the time without incident. Our guides are all trained in the "highs and lows" of the diabetic. Give us a call at 800-825-3205 for more information. Back to the Top
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